SpaceX seeks FCC approval for 100,000 Gen3 Starlink satellites

SpaceX has submitted an application to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requesting permission to launch up to 100,000 third‑generation (Gen3) Starlink satellites. The proposed constellation would supplement the existing roughly 11,000 Starlink satellites in low‑Earth orbit. Each Gen3 satellite would weigh more than 2 tonnes, far heavier than current units, and would require launch on SpaceX’s Starship vehicle or, in the interim, on Falcon Heavy rockets because Falcon 9 cannot lift the larger payloads.

SpaceX says the Gen3 network will deliver symmetrical multi‑gigabit broadband with ultra‑low latency under 20 ms, targeting consumers, enterprises, government users and “billions of AI‑powered devices.” To achieve this, the company is seeking access to an unusually broad swath of spectrum—including Ku, Ka, V, E, W and D bands, with uplink frequencies up to about 275 GHz. The firm pledges to operate on a non‑interference basis and to coordinate with existing spectrum users.

Astronomers have warned that such mega‑constellations could jeopardize ground‑based observations, recommending a ceiling of roughly 100,000 low‑orbit satellites to keep night‑sky brightness and satellite trails at manageable levels. The FCC will open a public comment period where rivals and scientific groups can raise objections. Implementation of Gen3 could take several years, and user terminals will need to be upgraded to exploit the higher bandwidth.